Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences,
Sam Ratulangi University, August 4 – 5 August 2008

The developments in molecular biology have given biotechnology new meaning, new prominence, and new potential. This is due to the shifting of paradigm of natural resources utilization from cellular level to molecular level. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology as an important aspect in molecular biology has emerged as a powerful tool in a variety of genetic analyses, medical dignostics, and forensic applications.

Because of the increasing use of PCR in the above fields, and its potential impact on every member of society, it is important to provide them with an understanding of the basic principles and application of PCR. In North Sulawesi itself, such introduction had only been conducted to limited number of teaching staffs in biomedical and agricultural sciences.

Seminar cum Workshop on PCR Application was designed to introduce to the university and society at large of the existence of Biotechnology Service Unit in the community. Also it addressed the essence of the idea that is to foster a pervasive, powerful interaction between those on campus and those in the society that in multiple ways benefits both parties. This strategy reflects the effort made by university to introduce the scientific and technological progress that have brought about significant transformations and continue to drive change in every aspect of life.

The seminar aimed to provide participants with basic understanding of PCR technique as well as its application, meanwhile the workshop aimed to provide participants with hands-on laboratory experience in genomic extraction, PCR amplification, gel electrophoreses of PCR products, and interpretation of the results.

Theme
Basic PCR application in research, teaching and related applied sciences.

Goals

1. to broaden participants’ insight towards the application of PCR in molecular research and its application, and as a teaching tool for biology classes;
2. to relate science to technology, society and environment.